Strategic collaboration brings analytica Lab Africa, IFAT Africa and Africa Automation Technology Fair together for 2027
Messe Muenchen India and RX Africa have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening the scale, reach and business impact of leading trade fairs in Africa.
The collaboration will bring the Africa Automation Technology Fair (AATF) into the existing co-located platform of analytica Lab Africa and IFAT Africa from 6–8 July 2027 at Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg. The combined platform is expected to create a broader ecosystem connecting laboratory technology, environmental solutions, automation and industrial technologies.
RX Africa, part of RX Global, brings extensive regional expertise, established industry relationships and an on-ground understanding of African markets. Messe Muenchen India, meanwhile, contributes its international trade-fair expertise and global network across key industrial sectors.
The partnership comes as African industries accelerate modernization, infrastructure development and technology adoption. By bringing three complementary exhibitions together, the organizers aim to create stronger opportunities for technology transfer, international business development and knowledge exchange.
IFAT Africa, recognised as a leading platform for water, sewage, waste and recycling technologies in Southern Africa, will continue to connect environmental solution providers with government bodies, municipalities and industry stakeholders. Alongside it, analytica Lab Africa will showcase laboratory technology, analysis and biotechnology, while AATF, with its 28-year legacy, adds a comprehensive focus on automation technologies.
The organizers also plan to strengthen the supporting conference and knowledge programme, bringing international experts and global technology providers closer to African buyers and decision-makers.
Stefan Rummel, CEO, Messe München, said Africa represents an important growth market for the company, while Bhupinder Singh, President – IMEA and CEO, Messe Muenchen India, highlighted the partnership’s potential to convert industry engagement into stronger commercial opportunities.
RX Africa Managing Director Carol Weaving added that the collaboration will combine regional insight with international expertise to enhance the value delivered to exhibitors and visitors.
The 2027 editions are positioned to become a stronger gateway between global innovation and Africa’s evolving industrial needs.
